Formative Evidence Quick Guide

What counts as formative evidence?

Formative evidence is information gathered while there is still time to respond instructionally. It may come from a question, quick write, student explanation, whiteboard response, exit ticket, short assessment, observation, or another standards-aligned task.

Strong formative evidence is

Aligned — it actually measures the intended learning.
Usable — it can change what happens next.
Timely — the teacher can respond while the learning is still active.
Specific enough — it helps identify what is secure and what is unfinished.
Proportionate — it does not create more data work than instructional value.

Four questions after collecting evidence

1. What does this show students understand?
2. What remains unclear or unfinished?
3. Who needs something different?
4. What will I do next?

Do not confuse volume with quality

More evidence is not automatically better evidence. If another assessment will not change the decision, ask whether it is necessary.

Nicholas in Practice

The shared system is designed to combine quick classroom evidence with common assessments and other sources so teachers can see a clearer pattern over time without duplicating data entry.

Formative Evidence Check

• Standard / learning target
• Evidence I will collect
• Why this evidence fits the standard
• What I will look for
• If most students are ready, I will…
• If many are not ready, I will…
• If only a few need support, I will…
• How I will collect new evidence

Final question: What decision will this evidence help me make?